Intravascular Line and Port Cleaning Methods, Methods of Administering an Agent Intravascularly, Methods of Obtaining/Testing Blood, and Devices for Performing Such Methods

Abstract

An intravascular port access device includes a first component having a chamber configured to attach reversibly to an intravenous line port. A second component reversibly attaches to the first component and contains a disinfecting agent and an applicator material. The second component is configured to be reversibly received over external surfaces of the intravenous line port. A method of cleansing an intravenous line port includes providing a port cleaning device having a first component with a chamber containing a first cleaning agent. A second component includes a second cleaning agent. A third component has a microbiocidal agent and is reversibly attached to the first component. The second component is removed from the device, the external surfaces of the port are contacted with the second cleaning agent, the first cleaning agent is ejected from the chamber into the port, and the third component is used to cap the port.

Description

RELATED PATENT DATA[0001]This patent claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 747,606, which was filed May 18, 2006; and to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 842,194, which was filed Aug. 31, 2006, and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 895,621, which was filed Mar. 19, 2007.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]The invention pertains to intravascular port access devices, intravascular port cleaning devices, methods of cleaning an intravascular port, methods of administering an agent into an intravascular line port, methods of obtaining a blood sample from an individual, and sets of intravascular line port caps.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Intravenous lines, such as peripheral IV lines and central IV lines, are common intravenous access methods for administering medicants, nutrient solutions, blood products, or other substances into a vein. Arterial lines are used, for example, in monitoring physiological parameters by arterial blood samp...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, microorganism intravascular device colonization or infection can occur as a result from a patients' own endogenous flora or from microorganisms introduced from contaminated equipment or other environmental contamination sources.

As a result, localized or systemic infection or septicemia can occur and can be life threatening.

Microorganisms present on contaminated equipment utilized for administration can be introduced through the port causing colonization or infection.

Another complication that can occur in association with an intravascular line, catheter or access port is clot formation due to blood return.

Yet another issue that can be associated with intravascular lines is lipid accumulation or build-up within the line or port.

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